I saw this this afternoon after having listened to Dr. Mark Kermode's review. The review didn't bode well, but I absolutely loved the Golden Compass. I didn't read the books, but want to now and understand that the books are much deeper and denser in characterisation than a 117 minute movie will ever be. I understand the need for plodding along in the beginning especially when you're talking about a parallel universe, you need to get the audience to understand. Granted most of the children already understand as they have read the books. The same thing happened in the Harry Potter movies, the first one was tedious, but helped set the scene even though most people would have read the books. The exception to this is Lord of the Rings which went galloping off from the word go and was an exciting, stimulating three movie rollercoaster from start to finish.
I am certain that subsequent Golden Compass movies will be much more action oriented, as this one left no doubt that there would be more. All I can say is that Daniel Craig is going to be very busy with Bond moves and Golden Compasses. Christopher Lee turns up in the Golden Compass briefly - loving his comback, he deserves it.
Yet again the debate of being faithful to the book rears its head. Should you read the book before it is made into a movie?
What books have made fantastic movies:-
Jaws, most books by Jane Austen, the French Connection, Gone With the Wind, The Devil Wears Prada, The Godfather, Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, Breakfast At Tiffany's, Goodfellas, to name but a few.
The Guardian list is here.
My favourite from that list is Jaws. I read the book when I was nine - my stepfather gave it to me. It didn't give me swimming nightmares until I went to see Steven Spielberg's film. A big part of what made Jaws great was the score by John Williams. His music has turned many a so-so film into a moving experience.
I also saw previews for P.S. I Love You (want to see), I am Legend with Will Smith - I'll see anything with Will Smith in it and Enchanted - looked like it could be entertaining.
